What do you get when you combine handmade artists, incredible chalk art, delicious local food, and DIY fun? You get the Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair.
The popular, family-friendly event returns to Olde Town Arvada on October 17th and 18th, bringing together more than 100 handmade artisans. Known for its high-quality curation, shoppers can expect to discover their next go-to piece of jewelry, statement outfit, home décor trend, or one-of-a-kind artwork that can’t be found in traditional retail stores.
At the heart of Jackalope is its commitment to supporting independent artists and makers. Every artisan is juried before being accepted into the fair, creating a marketplace filled with high-quality, handcrafted products. In an age of online shopping and mass production, Jackalope offers something increasingly rare: the opportunity to connect with the people behind the products and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every handmade item.
Expect everything from whimsical wooden bookmarks by local artist Pipaluk to Wild Wax, whose candles are about more than just scent. Each candle is inspired by an animal and comes with an interactive QR code featuring facts, photos, and information about conservation efforts.
“Our goal has always been to create more than just a place to shop,” says Sara Diederich, co-founder of Jackalope Arts. “We want Jackalope to be a weekend where people can meet the artists behind the work, enjoy great local food, experience live art, and make lasting memories with friends and family. There’s something special about connecting directly with the people who create what they sell, and we’re excited to bring that experience back to Olde Town Arvada this October.”
One of the highlights of the weekend is the live chalk art. Throughout the event, talented chalk artists will transform asphalt into colorful, large-scale works of art. Watching these murals develop throughout the day has become a favorite tradition for many attendees.
And, of course, shopping works up an appetite. A variety of local food vendors will be serving delicious meals, snacks, and desserts throughout the event. From freshly prepared sushi rolls to ice cream frozen with liquid nitrogen with each scoop, your taste buds are in for a culinary treat.
Families will also find plenty of opportunities to get creative together. Interactive DIY activities invite visitors of all ages to make something with their own hands. These activities help make Jackalope more than just a shopping event—it’s a destination for the whole family.
“Being mothers ourselves, both Sara and I found it meaningful to create a shopping environment where kids were encouraged to come and given opportunities to get creative themselves among all the other creatives,” says Melissa Kohout, co-founder of Jackalope Arts.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of artisan markets or visiting for the first time, the Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair offers something for everyone. Most importantly, the event celebrates the creativity and community that make Colorado’s handmade scene so special.
Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.
The Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair takes place on October 17th and 18th in Olde Town Arvada from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Come discover your next favorite artist and experience one of Colorado’s favorite handmade festivals.